Travertine VS Concrete w/acrylic overlay

by Paula
(Anthem, AZ)

We have been interviewing several landscape companies for a backyard remodel. We live in the Phoenix, AZ area. It was suggested we pour concrete and do an acrylic overlay which will provide a travertine appearance for less the cost. I've seen some samples and I'm not sure a like the faux look but could save us $7000. Would you please provide your thoughts on the 2 products, pro & con.

Thanks so much!Paula

ANSWER

I am not familiar with putting a layer of acrylic over concrete. Actually, I have never heard of that so I really can't comment on it.

I do know they can do some interesting things with stamped concrete. Typically I don't like it though because construction joints must be used, and if you choose a pattern that resembles irregular natural stone, the design gets ruined. However, I would imagine that with a regular stone like travertine, a skilled mason could hide these joints.

Concrete joints can crack, but if you do not have freeze thaw conditions, then this is not as much of a problem if done well.

All that being said, I am sure it cannot rival the beauty of travertine and a natural stone. It's breath taking. If you haven't been there, visit my page Travertine Pavers

If it were my own project, and I could afford it, I would choose the travertine. If the $7000 was a struggle, I would not use the travertine and find something else I can be happy with. Since you have seen the samples, do you think it would be something you would be happy with? If you are not sure about the look, find something else, maybe a product that is in the middle of concrete and travertine.

Pavers are not usually my favorite product, but I did see one recently that was made of large slabs to look like bluestone...and it did! It was fabulous, cool on the feet, looked like real natural stone and was less expensive than travertine. It was made by the company Tech-Bloc. Perhaps you should take a look at this type of project before you go one way or the other.

"Susan, what a pleasure it was to work with you. You made me feel like I was your only client - responding late at night and always so quickly! Your design is amazing and we only hope we can do justice to it when we plant. You have such fantastic ideas and you are so open to suggestions and changes. Loved working with you - now if you could only come to Canada and plant it!!!"Helen, Ontario-Canada